School Infection Control Handbook - 2010

Appendix C: Sample Classroom, Nurse, and Custodial Guidelines and Posters

Appendix C.2. Sample Protocol Poster: Cleaning Surfaces for Infection Control for School Custodians

Introduction Schools have several types of surfaces that require cleanin g; only some surfaces need disinfecting , depending on specific circumstances. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends regular cleaning as a prevention strategy against H1N1 (Influenza A) and other flu types and germs. Best practice is to clean touch points more frequently rather than disinfect them. Disinfectants are antimicrobial pesticides that can be toxic and pose a hazard to students and staff. Custodians receive an occupational exposure from daily use. Unless specified, the following surfaces need to be cleaned only. The cleaning products recommended have been independently third- party certified by Green Seal and/or EcoLogo. Desks, Work Tables, and Computer Keyboards – Shared Products: An all-purpose cleaning product and a high-quality microfiber cloth. Keyboard covers are more easily cleaned than the keys. Recommended cleaning schedule: Routine: Clean daily. During outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses or flu: Clean in between uses or after each group session.

Desks, Work Tables, and Computer Keyboards – Not Shared Products: An all-purpose cleaning product and a microfiber cloth. Recommended cleaning schedule: Clean weekly or as needed. Cafeteria Tables and Floors

Products: A cleaning detergent that removes dirt and allergenic protein matter, and high- quality microfiber cloths/mops (instead of a sponges, which are not recommended due to their potential to spread contamination). Recommended cleaning schedule: Clean after each use, before the next group arrives. Other Surfaces Touched by a Variety of Hands ( phones, light fixtures, stair railings, door knobs and push bars, elevator buttons, water fountains, etc.) Products: An all-purpose cleaning product and a high-quality microfiber cloth. Recommended cleaning schedule: Routine: Clean daily. During outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses or flu: Clean touch points in between classes or periodic events. Bathrooms, Showers, and Locker Rooms Products: A bathroom cleaner for all bathroom surfaces and facilities, and a disinfectant approved for broad-spectrum use with claims for fungi and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus . Use disinfectant only on surfaces touched by a variety of people (sink and toilet handles, door knobs, toilet seat, soap and towel dispenser) and high-risk surfaces (shower room floors). Recommended cleaning and DISINFECTING schedule: Clean and disinfect daily. Floors in Classrooms and Hallways Products: A neutral floor-cleaning product specific to flooring material that removes dirt year- round and salt in the wintertime, and a microfiber mop. Recommended cleaning schedule: Clean daily.

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